Manchester City's Premier League title challenge was dealt a setback on Monday when manager Manuel Pellegrini announced that Sergio Aguero will be out for "at least one month" through injury.
.
The 25-year-old Argentina striker has been in stunning form of late, scoring 12 goals in his last 11 games to take the 2012 champions to within three points of league leaders Arsenal.
.
However, after opening the scoring in Saturday's 6-3 victory over Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium, he had to come off in the 49th minute with a calf problem.
.
"I think he will be at least one month out," Pellegrini told a press conference, ahead of City's League Cup quarterfinal tie at second-tier Leicester City on Tuesday.
.
"He has a calf injury. Maybe the doctor can say exactly how many weeks he will be."
.
Aguero verified the news on Twitter, but expressed optimism ahead of the rehabilitation process.
.
"It's confirmed – my calf injury will leave me out for at least a month," he said.
.
"The good news is recovery work starts today. We started with therapeutic massages on the area and some bike work. I'll keep you posted. Thanks for the support."
.
Aguero's injury arrives at an inopportune time for City, who face Fulham, title rivals Liverpool and Crystal Palace over the busy festive period.
As long as he'll be back before the Barcelona clash then it will be a great one for them. They need him in the UCL.
Aguero has been instrumental to so many Manchester City goals this season so this will affect them in a way.